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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) –Governor Chris Christie has ordered all state buildings to fly flags at half-staff on Wednesday to honor the service and sacrifice of Jersey City Police Officer Melvin Santiago, who was raised in Jersey City and lost his life in the line of duty (see previous story).

“Officer Santiago’s selfless devotion to public service and the protection of his community makes him a hero and a true role model for all New Jerseyans.” said Governor Christie in a release. “It is appropriate and fitting for the State of New Jersey to recognize his true commitment to the welfare and safety of others, to mark his passing, to honor his memory, and to remember his family as they mourn their tragic loss.”

Santiago is the first Jersey City officer killed in the line of duty since Detective Marc DiNardo died in July 2009 during a raid on an apartment while searching for suspects in a robbery (see related story).